NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH Hazard Communication Program Division of Occupational Health and Safety August 2015 In compliance with 29 CFR 1910.1200 (Hazard Communication Standard), this document provides information and services available for the safe use, storage and disposal of hazardous substances.
CONTENTS INTRODUCTION.. 2 I. THE NIH HAZARD COMMUNICATION PROGRAM (NIH HCP).. 3 A. Policy Statement. 3 II. RESPONSIBILITIES. 3 A. Responsibility for Program Implementation... 3 B. Responsibilities for the Director, NIH... 3 C. Responsibilities of the Non-Laboratory Supervisor... 4 D. Responsibilities of the Principal Investigator and Laboratory Advisor. 4 E. Responsibilities of the Employee 5 F. Responsibilities of the Division of Occupational Health and Safety (DOHS). 5 G. Responsibilities of the NIH Occupational Health and Safety Committee.... 5 III. THE NIH HCP COMPONENTS... 6 A. Identification of Hazardous Chemicals.. 6 B. Maintenance of Current Hazard Information at Worksite.. 7 i. Labels. 7 ii. Safety Data Sheet (SDSs). 8 C. EMPLOYEE INFORMATION AND TRAINING 9 i. Hazardous Non-Routine Tasks... 10 ii. Informing Contractor and Contract Workers....10 iii. Program Review. 10 IV. GUIDANCE IN IMPLEMENTING THE NIH HCP. 10 A. Checklist for Implementing the NIH HCP.... 10 V. ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS ON PROGRAM IMPLEMENTATION.. 11 APPENDIX A General References 15 APPENDIX B National Library of Medicine (NLM) Databases for Chemical Hazard Information 16 APPENDIX C NIH HCP Resources.. 17 APPENDIX D Glossary of Terms.. 18 August 2015
ACRONYMS ACGIH ANSI CFR CHO CHP DEP DOHS GHS HCP IC NIOSH NIH NLM OMS ORS OSHA OSHC PEL PI PPE SDS TLV American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists American National Standards Institute Code of Federal Regulations Chemical Hygiene Officer Chemical Hygiene Plan Division of Environmental Protection Division of Occupational Health and Safety Global Harmonization System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals Hazard Communication Program Institutes and Centers National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health National Institutes of Health National Library of Medicine Occupational Medical Services Office of Research Services Occupational Safety and Health Administration Occupational Safety and Health Committee Permissible Exposure Limit Principal Investigator Personal Protective Equipment Safety Data Sheet Threshold Limit Value published by ACGIH August 2015 1
NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH DIVISION OF OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY NIH Hazard Communication Program August 2015 INTRODUCTION The National Institutes of Health is committed to providing a safe and healthy work environment. The purpose of the NIH Hazard Communication Program (NIH HCP) is to increase employee awareness of hazardous substances used in the workplace. The NIH HCP uses a comprehensive approach to inform employees of the potential chemical hazards to which they may be exposed. Additionally, it provides individuals with information concerning protective measures to minimize injury and illness from exposures to hazardous chemicals. The ultimate goal of these efforts is to reduce, to the lowest practical level, the incidence of chemical related injuries and illnesses of NIH employees. The NIH HCP complies with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Hazard Communication Standard, 29 CFR 1910.1200. Success of the program depends on the joint efforts of administration, managers and supervisors, Division of Occupational Health and Safety (DOHS), and NIH employees. The NIH HCP has been established to provide information about chemical hazards. This information is communicated in three primary ways: 1. Safety data sheets (SDSs), 2. Warning labels and signs, and 3. Training employees on chemical hazards in the workplace Part I of this written program describes the responsibilities that NIH management, supervisors, and employees have in developing, implementing, and maintaining the NIH HCP. Part I also describes how each of these mechanisms is used to inform employees on the hazardous properties of the chemicals in their workplace and measures they can take to protect themselves from exposure. Part II of this booklet includes a summary of the NIH HCP, along with a checklist of how to implement the program. August 2015 2
I. THE NIH HAZARD COMMUNICATION PROGRAM (NIH HCP) A. Policy Statement It is the policy of NIH that all employees who might potentially be exposed to hazardous chemicals in their assigned jobs shall be fully informed of both the hazardous properties of the chemicals, and the protective measures available to minimize exposure to these chemicals. This type of information will be made available to employees by means of: labels on chemical containers, SDSs and training. Employees will be informed of any known hazards associated with chemicals to which they may be potentially exposed before their initial assignment, and whenever the hazards change. The goal of the NIH HCP is to reduce employee exposure to hazardous chemicals, and thus reduce the overall incidence of chemical related injuries and illnesses. II. RESPONSIBILITIES A. Responsibility for Program Implementation There are two types of work operations where coverage of the NIH HCP is limited. These are laboratories and operations where chemicals are only handled in sealed containers (e.g., a warehouse). Basically, these types of work operations need only keep labels on containers as they are received, maintain SDSs that are received, provide employees access, and provide information and training to employees. Each employee who may be exposed to hazardous chemicals when working must be provided information, and be trained prior to initial assignment to work with a hazardous chemical, and whenever the hazard changes. Exposure or exposed under the OSHA rule means that an employee is subjected to a hazardous chemical in the course of employment through any route of entry (inhalation, ingestion, skin contact, or absorption) and includes potential (e.g., accidental or possible) exposure. Effective hazard communication can be realized when responsible management and responsive employees work together in developing and implementing an integrated hazard communication program. The NIH HCP is performance-based, allowing for flexibility in implementing the program components depending on the needs of the employees within the various work environments. The roles and responsibilities of NIH management and employees are outlined below. B. Responsibilities of the Director, NIH The Director, NIH, is ultimately responsible for the health and safety of all NIH employees. The Director establishes health and safety policies and delegates the responsibility for the design and implementation of safety and health programs. The Director is responsible for assuring that an effective Hazard Communication Program is administered for all NIH employees. August 2015 3
C. Responsibilities of the Non-Laboratory Supervisor Supervisors in support (e.g., housekeeping, animal care, engineering services, etc.) and administrative areas provide the necessary direction to ensure the effective implementation of the NIH HCP for their work locations. At the time of the employee s initial assignment, the supervisor is responsible for: 1. Identifying chemicals that pose a potential health or physical risk to employees in their work area; 2. Ensuring that employees are made aware of the potential hazards associated with those chemicals, including the availability of chemical specific information (e.g., SDSs); 3. Maintaining an inventory list of hazardous chemicals and SDSs for chemicals used in the workspace; 4. Ensuring that employees minimize any potential exposure through the use of available engineering or facility design features (e.g., specialized ventilation devices such as hoods, physical barriers, etc.), safe work practices, and necessary or assigned personal protective equipment; 5. Providing employees, under their supervision, guidance and training specific to their work; 6. Coordinating employee medical consultation and/or surveillance with the Occupational Medical Service if overexposure to a hazardous chemical is suspected; and 7. Reporting to the DOHS or the NIH Occupational Safety and Health Committee problems pertaining to the implementation of the NIH HCP. It is important for the supervisor to ensure that any and all incoming SDSs are reviewed for new and significant health and safety information. Hazard information must be shared with the affected employees. This may be done through delegation. D. Responsibilities of the Principal Investigator and Laboratory Supervisor Because the use of potentially hazardous chemicals in laboratories is governed by the NIH Chemical Hygiene Plan (NIH-CHP), the laboratory supervisor is exempt from some of the provisions of the Hazard Communication Program. However, the Principal Investigator or laboratory supervisor shall ensure that chemical labels are not removed or defaced, and maintain and make SDS available to employees. August 2015 4
Refer to the OSHA Laboratory Standard and the NIH-CHP for specific requirements affecting laboratory operations. Copies are available from the Institutes and Centers (IC) Safety and Health Specialist (301-496-2346). E. Responsibilities of the Employee Employees have the opportunity to affect their work environment by gaining knowledge about the chemical hazards associated with their work, and applying this knowledge to reduce the risk of injury and adverse health effects to themselves, coworkers, and visitors in their work area. Each employee is responsible for: 1. Performing work in a safe manner; 2. Complying with all applicable provisions of the NIH HCP; 3. Following all standard operating procedures for their worksite; 4. Adhering to the precautions outlined on container labels, standard operating procedures and SDSs; 5. Requesting training on hazardous chemical substances with which they are unfamiliar or have concerns; 6. Using personal protective equipment and clothing in accordance with prescribed training; and 7. Reporting the existence of health and safety hazards associated with the use of chemicals to his/her supervisor, the DOHS, or the NIH Occupational Safety and Health Committee. F. Responsibilities of the Division of Occupational Health and Safety (DOHS) The DOHS provides administrative management for the NIH HCP and is responsible for: 1. Monitoring federal regulations and updating the NIH HCP to reflect any changes; 2. Providing basic training in hazard communication for NIH employees; 3. Providing technical guidance and policy interpretation to personnel at all levels of responsibility on matters pertaining to the NIH HCP; and 4. Providing assistance to supervisors and employees in the implementation of the NIH HCP. The DOHS employs specialists in industrial hygiene, chemical hygiene, and occupational health and safety to assist all NIH employees in developing effective safety programs for implementation at their worksite. A Safety and Health Specialist is assigned to each IC to provide support and assistance in addressing the safety and health concerns of NIH employees. G. Responsibilities of the NIH Occupational Safety and Health Committee (OSHC) The NIH Occupational Safety and Health Committee serves in an advisory role to the Director, NIH, to the directors of the ICs, and to the DOHS. August 2015 5
The committee is responsible for: 1. Annually review and monitor the status of compliance with the NIH HCP to evaluate program development, implementation, and resources; and 2. Making recommendations for program improvement. III. THE NIH HCP COMPONENTS The NIH Hazard Communication Program consists of three components: 1. The identification of hazardous chemicals; 2. The maintenance of current hazard information at the worksite including warning labels, signs and SDSs; and 3. The training of employees. The purposes of each of these components, as well as the requirements for implementing them, are provided below. A. Identification of Hazardous Chemicals The NIH HCP applies to all persons who are potentially exposed to hazardous chemicals in their work (except laboratories). All supervisors must determine which chemicals may present a hazard to their employees based on the physical and chemical properties of the substance; potential health effects; and how the substance is used. The supervisor shall create and maintain a hazardous chemical inventory for their areas of responsibilities. In identifying hazardous chemicals in the work area, attention should be given to: 1. The quantity of the chemical used; 2. The physical properties of the chemical (e.g., volatility, flammability, etc.); 3. The potency and toxicity of the chemical; 4. The manner in which the chemical will be used; and 5. The means available to control release of, or exposure to the chemical. It is important that written standard operating procedures for each work area are periodically reviewed to ensure that appropriate safety precautions are included. These procedures should be periodically updated to reflect changes that may affect the chemical hazard assessment of ongoing work. The chemical inventory serves as an index for SDSs that must be readily available at the worksite. Each worksite shall include a list by name of all hazardous chemicals used in the workplace by using the identity that is referenced on the SDS. This identity is often a common name, such as the product or trade name (i.e., Lime-A-Way). Safety data sheets should be consulted for important physical and health hazard data. The American Conference of Industrial Hygienists Threshold Limit Values (TLVs) and OSHA Permissible Exposure Limits (PELs) can also be referenced for health exposure information. The hazards of mixing chemicals must also be addressed. Supervisors may contact the Safety and Health Specialist assigned to their IC (301-496-2346) for assistance in August 2015 6
performing a hazardous chemical assessment or to obtain copies of the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard or additional copies of this document. B. Maintenance of Current Hazard Information at the Worksite Employees must be provided with information about the potential hazards of chemicals before beginning their initial assignment. This hazard information must be made available to employees at the worksite. Two readily available resources for this type of information are the label on the chemical container, and the SDS available from the manufacturer, distributor, or importer of the chemical. Chemicals must be properly labeled in compliance with the Global Harmonization System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS). OSHA has issued a final rule to align its Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200) with the GHS (see https://www.osha.gov/dsg/hazcom/ghs-final-rule.html). i. Labels Labels on containers of hazardous chemicals serve to identify and provide immediate warning of the hazards associated with the chemical, and as a reminder that more detailed safety and health information is available elsewhere, particularly in an SDS. For these reasons, manufacturers, distributors, and importers are required to provide labels that include both the chemical name and all appropriate hazard warnings. Labels, signs, placards, and other forms of warnings provide visual reminders of specific hazards not only to employees working directly with the chemical, but also to others such as visitors, service representatives, housekeeping personnel, and emergency personnel who may encounter these chemicals. Users of hazardous chemicals must ensure that labels on purchased or supplied chemicals are not removed or defaced, unless the container is relabeled with the required information. Alternative methods to container labels such as signs, placards, process sheets, and operating procedures are acceptable for individual stationary process containers, provided that the information otherwise listed on the manufacturer s label is conveyed to all affected persons. Original and secondary containers must be properly labeled with the identity of the hazardous substance(s) contained. The chemical identity on the label must correspond to that used on the SDS. In lieu of the manufacturer s label, an in-house label that provides general hazard information may be used. Each supervisor must ensure that all containers have EITHER the original manufacturer s label or supplemental label, which contains the following information: Product identifier Signal word Hazard statement(s) Pictogram(s) Precautionary statement(s) Supplier information August 2015 7
Labels shall be: Legible, In English, Prominently displayed on the container. Detailed information on labels and label requirements can be found online: http://www.osha.gov/dsg/hazcom/appendix_c.pdf Labels are not required on secondary containers intended for the immediate use (within the same shift) of the person who performs the chemical transfer. Examples of portable containers include: measuring cups, transfer containers, mixing jugs, etc. Secondary containers intended for use after the immediate shift must be labeled with the name of the chemical, the concentration, hazard warnings, date transferred, and initials of the person who transferred it. ii. Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) identify the physical and chemical properties of hazardous chemicals (e.g., flash point, vapor pressure), their physical and health hazards (e.g., potential for fire, explosion, signs and symptoms of exposure), and precautions for safe handling and use. Information in the SDS covering the physical and chemical properties of a chemical (e.g., volatility, flammability, reactivity), its toxic properties (e.g., carcinogen or reproductive hazard), and routes of exposure can be used to define what potential hazards the material presents to users. A SDS shall be available for every hazardous substance used in a work area and shall be accessible to employees. All manufacturers, distributors, and/or suppliers of hazardous chemicals are required to provide an SDS with each chemical purchased. If shipments of chemicals are received without an SDS, the recipient should contact the manufacturer/supplier for a copy. It is important to ensure that SDSs (or information contained therein) maintained at the worksite provide up-to-date, complete, and accurate information. Supervisors and employees may wish to consult with the DOHS or the National Library of Medicine (NLM) for access to additional chemical information databases (see Appendix B). Each SDS shall include the following information in the referenced order: 1. Identification; 2. Hazard(s) identification; 3. Composition/information on ingredients; 4. First aid measures; 5. Fire-fighting measures; 6. Accidental release measures; August 2015 8
7. Handling and storage; 8. Exposure controls/personal protection; 9. Physical and chemical properties; 10. Stability and reactivity; 11. Toxicological information; 12. Ecological information; 13. Disposal considerations; 14. Transport information; 15. Regulatory information; and 16. Other information, including date of preparation or last revision. C. Employee Information and Training All employees working with, or who may be potentially exposed to, hazardous chemicals must receive information and training that will enable them to work safely with those chemicals. Employees must receive training about the nature of the known hazards associated with the chemicals they handle, as well as the measures that are available to protect themselves. By receiving training in a timely manner, employees are better able to make informed judgments regarding the appropriate safeguards to use in minimizing their exposures to hazardous chemicals. Employee training shall focus on the following: 1. A basic description of the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard, including the requirements for container labels, SDSs and training on hazardous substances. The training should emphasize the fact that the employees have the right to receive or have their personal physician receive information contained in SDSs; 2. Work operations where hazards are present; 3. The known physical and health hazards associated with the chemicals in their workplace; 4. Methods that can be used to detect the presence or release of the chemicals; 5. Available protective measures to minimize exposures including engineering controls, safe work practices, personal protective equipment, and emergency procedures; and 6. Details of the NIH HCP including an explanation of the labeling system, SDSs and how to obtain and use them. Supervisors must provide this information before employees begin their initial assignment, and whenever a new hazardous chemical is introduced into the workplace. This information must be provided for both routine and non-routine tasks. Training records shall be maintained by the Supervisor for at least one year. In addition to job-site specific training provided by the supervisor, the DOHS offers a variety of safety training, industrial hygiene and surveillance programs, and information resources to promote employee health and safety. Information regarding the training opportunities offered by the DOHS can be obtained by contacting the IC Safety and Health Specialist (301-496-2346). August 2015 9
i. Hazardous Non-Routine Tasks Supervisors shall inform employees of the hazards and safety procedures for non-routine tasks and operations involving substances contained in unlabeled pipes in their work area. Information will include the chemicals specific hazards and appropriate protective/safety measures that the employee must take. ii. Informing Contractor and Contract Workers Outside contractors working at NIH shall be provided information regarding hazards that they may encounter during their work at NIH. Potential workplace hazards and associated training requirements for outside contractors should be outlined in the contract language specific to each project and/or job site. iii. Program Review The NIH HCP will be reviewed and updated annually by the OSHC to determine effectiveness in preventing employee exposures to hazardous materials and to maintain compliance with regulatory requirements. IV. GUIDANCE IN IMPLEMENTING THE NIH HCP A summary of the key requirements for implementing the NIH HCP is provided in checklist form below. More detailed information on each of these requirements is provided on the pages referenced in parentheses. Additional guidance for implementing the program requirements can be obtained by consulting the answers to the questions found on pages 12-15. Supervisors are encouraged to collaborate with the DOHS staff to implement the plan at their specific worksites. A. Checklist for Implementing the NIH HCP Identify hazardous chemicals by work area Obtain and maintain SDSs of hazardous chemicals from manufacturers/distributors Develop a chemical inventory Devise a method to ensure that SDSs (or information contained therein) are accessible to employees Ensure that labels are legible and list the chemical name and necessary hazard warning information Inform employees of NIH HCP Inform employees of job-site specific chemical hazards and available protective measures for reducing potential exposure Provide new information on chemical hazards as it becomes available Inform employees of hazards related to non-routine tasks Identify methods to inform other employees, of a multi-employer worksite, of hazards August 2015 10
VI. ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS ON PROGRAM IMPLEMENTATION 1. What is a hazardous chemical? OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200) broadly defines a hazardous chemical as any chemical whose presence or use is a physical hazard or a health hazard. Chemicals that are considered "physical hazards include: combustible liquids, compressed gases, explosives, flammables, organic peroxides, oxidizers, pyrophorics, and unstable or water-reactive chemicals. Chemicals that are considered "health hazards" include: hepatotoxins, nephrotoxins, carcinogens, teratogens etc. Supervisors and employees may wish to consult the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard for more detailed definitions of both physical and health hazards. Additional information can be obtained by attending DOHS training programs, or calling the Safety and Health Specialist assigned to your IC at (301) 496-2346. The NIH HCP uses OSHA's broad definitions to refer to the hazardous properties which may be associated with chemicals. However, to determine whether certain chemicals pose physical or health risks to employees, and require inclusion in the NIH HCP, specific attention should be given to the exposure potential of chemicals present in the work area. Exposure potential is dependent on the following: 1. The quantity of the chemical used; 2. The manner in which the chemical is used; and 3. The means available to control release of or exposure to the chemical. Additional factors that may influence the effects of chemicals on the health of employees are the potency or toxicity of the chemical and any characteristics of the persons using the chemical that may place them at increased risk (e.g., medical conditions, sensitivity to the chemical). 2. How can I get a copy of OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard? A copy of the standard is available by contacting your IC Safety and Health Specialist at (301) 496-2346 or downloaded here: https://www.osha.gov/dsg/hazcom/hcsfinalregtxt.html 3. What sources of information are available for compiling a list of hazardous chemicals? As an aid in determining substances which are considered to be hazardous, supervisors should consult OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard for detailed explanations and definitions of categories of hazardous chemicals. The manufacturer's SDSs can be used to identify important physical and health hazard data. Information on developing and August 2015 11
maintaining chemical listings and performing chemical hazard assessments can be obtained by contacting the IC Safety and Health Specialists in the DOHS (301) 496-2346, or visit www.osha.gov and type in Hazard Communication. 4. Why can't I simply rely on the manufacturer's/ supplier's SDS to determine whether a chemical is hazardous? While the chemical and physical properties of the material (e.g., its volatility, flammability, reactivity), as well as its toxic properties (e.g., carcinogen or reproductive hazard), can be used to define the hazard potential the material presents to employees, the risk of experiencing harmful health effects varies with the degree of exposure in a given work operation. Therefore, the determination of what constitutes a hazardous chemical needs to be made by the supervisor for his/her work area. Factors influencing the degree of exposure include the quantity of chemical, the manner in which it is used, and the means available to control the release of, or exposure to the chemicals. 5. What information must be maintained and made accessible to employees at the worksite? A current inventory list of chemicals identified as potentially hazardous, SDSs (or information contained within) for those chemicals, and labels that identify the chemical and list the critical hazard information must be maintained and made available at the worksite. NIH chemical users should factor in their own working requirements and conditions of use when selecting appropriate work practices, personal protective equipment, and engineering controls. The chemical inventory should consist of all chemicals that are produced, imported, or used. The chemical inventory should be complete and contain, at a minimum, the following: chemical name; CAS Number; common name; synonyms; product/mixture name (if applicable); and percentage of ingredients in product/mixture (if applicable). It is recommended that this chemical inventory be computerized for future sorting, additions, deletions, and status reports. 6. What if I find that the manufacturer's/suppliers SDS provides incomplete information or is missing critical information? The NLM has several databases that can be used to access additional information (see appendix B). If you need information, contact your IC Safety and Health Specialist at (301) 496-2346. 7. What if the manufacturer's/supplier's SDS does not include the names or identity of the chemical component(s)? August 2015 12
Information relating to the chemical identity, or name of a hazardous chemical, may be withheld by the chemical manufacturer, importer or employer if it is deemed to be a trade secret. However, information about its harmful properties cannot be withheld and must be included in the SDS. Also, the chemical identity must be made available to health professionals, and certain designated individuals so they can render medical treatment, to bring about protective measures in an emergency or, when requested in non-emergency situations, to protect employees who may be potentially exposed. For such disclosures, a written statement of confidentiality may be required prior to release of the chemical identity or, in an emergency situation, as soon as circumstances permit. 8. If an employee works with several hazardous chemicals in a process, is it necessary to maintain an SDS for each hazardous chemical present? Yes, employees must have access to information related to potentially hazardous chemicals identified in each work area. This information may be the manufacturer's SDS or some other source that contains pertinent health and safety information. The supervisor may also choose to develop safe operating procedures for processes that cover groups of hazardous chemicals designed to identify and control the collective hazards associated with these chemicals. 9. Do I have to re-label all incoming containers of hazardous chemicals? Manufacturers and suppliers of hazardous chemicals are required to label their containers with the identity of the chemical and the appropriate hazard warnings. Therefore, in most cases, incoming containers will not have to be relabeled. If the majority of employees in a work area speak a language other than English, supervisors may add the necessary information in that language as long as the information is presented in English as well. 10. Do I need to label transfer containers? When transferring hazardous chemicals from a labeled container to another, the portable or transfer container does not have to be labeled if only one person handles the container and the container is filled and emptied by that person during the workday. In situations where other persons may be exposed to the chemicals present in the portable or transfer container, it is always prudent to label the container to inform those who are potentially exposed about the hazards associated with the chemical and the necessary precautions to minimize their exposure. 11. In addition to labels, what other forms of warning should be used to identify the presence of hazardous chemicals? In some cases, warning signs on doors should be used to alert persons not to enter the work area unless they are aware of the necessary safeguards. Door signs should also provide the name and telephone number of the person(s) to contact in case of emergency. This information is especially important for visitors or employees not assigned to that area. 12. If SDSs and labels are maintained at the worksite, why is it necessary to train employees? August 2015 13
SDSs and labels have limited value unless the employees understand how to use the information and are aware of actions to be taken to avoid or minimize hazardous exposures and thus the occurrence of adverse health effects. Training provides this opportunity and allows supervisors to assess their employees' level of understanding of the material and their use of written operating procedures. 13. What additional training programs covering chemical safety are available? The DOHS offers a program entitled Laboratory Safety. Contact your IC Safety and Health Specialist for course information. Additional training in Hazard Communication for supervisors, support, and administrative personnel is provided by the DOHS on an as needed basis. 14. What if I believe that I have not been provided with the required hazard information? All NIH employees have the right to discuss their safety and health concerns with their supervisor or the DOHS, and the Occupational Safety and Health Committee without fear of reprisal for expressing their concerns. 15. Are contract employees covered under the NIH HCP? Employees working under contract at the NIH are subject to their own employer's Hazard Communication Program, to the extent that hazardous chemicals are being supplied and used by the contractor. Contract employees potentially exposed to chemicals present at the NIH facility can obtain NIH HCP information from the NIH Contracting Officer s Representative for the contract. NIH contractors must submit a listing of hazardous chemicals that they bring into NIH facilities, and provide corresponding SDSs to the NIH Contracting Officer s Representative for the contract. 16. Who can I contact if I have questions on implementing any of the requirements of the NIH HCP? A toxicologist within the DOHS provides technical guidance on matters pertaining specifically to the NIH HCP. In addition, the DOHS has assigned Safety and Health Specialists to each IC to assist NIH employees with safety and health concerns. Contact your IC Safety and Health Specialist at (301) 496-2346 to obtain the necessary assistance. August 2015 14
APPENDIX A General References American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (Issued annually). Threshold Limit Values for Chemical Substances and Physical Agents and Biological Exposure Indices. 2012. Cincinnati, Ohio. Bretherick, L. Handbook of Reactive Chemical Hazards. 3rd ed. 1985. Butterworths, Boston. Hazard Communication, 29 CFR 1910.1200 (1994). Hazard Communication, Appendix C, 29 CFR1910.1200, Allocation of Label Elements (Mandatory). Hazard Communication Standard Final Rule, 29 CFR 1910.1200 (2012). https://www.osha.gov/dsg/hazcom/ghs-final-rule.html Lewis, Richard. Sax s Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 5 Volume Set. 12 th Edition. Van Nostrand Reinhold Company, New York. The Merck Index. An Encyclopedia of Chemicals and Drugs. 11th ed. 1989. Merck and Company, Inc., Rahway, New Jersey. National Institutes of Health (NIH). NIH Occupational Safety and Health Management. 2/27/2006. NIH Manual Issuance No. 1340. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards. June, 2010 (or subsequent editions). National Institutes for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Cincinnati, Ohio, Government Printing Office (GPO), Washington, D.C., GPO Stock No. 017-033-00500-1. Prudent Practices in the Laboratory: Handling and Disposal of Chemicals. Washington, DC: National Academies Press, 1995. (available online with free access) Registry of Toxic Effects of Chemical Substances. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Centers for Disease Control, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, revised annually, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC. Rose, V. E., & Cohrssen, B. (Eds.). (2011). Patty's Industrial Hygiene, 4-Volume Set. Wiley. com. Safety in Academic Chemistry Laboratories. Washington, DC: American Chemical Society, 2003. http://www.acs.org/content/dam/acsorg/about/governance/committees/chemicalsafety/publications/safety -in-academic-chemistry-laboratories-students.pdf August 2015 15
APPENDIX B National Library of Medicine (NLM) Databases for Chemical Hazard Information 1. Toxicology Literature Online (TOXLINE) TOXLINE is the NLM's online, interactive collection of toxicological information containing references to published material and research in progress. 2. Toxicology Data Network (TOXNET) TOXNET is a computerized system of toxicologically oriented factual data banks managed by the NLM. Many NIH facilities with NLM accounts may access this database directly, those facilities which do not have access to the NLM can request assistance from the NLM. 3. Medlars Online (MEDLINE) The MEDLINE is the NLM file of bibliographic citations from approximately 3,400 medical and biomedical journals. August 2015 16
APPENDIX C NIH HCP Resources Use this space for your personal record of resources that are available in implementing the NIH HCP. August 2015 17
APPENDIX D Glossary of Terms Acute effect: An adverse effect on a human or animal which has severe symptoms developing rapidly and coming quickly to a crisis. Carcinogen: A substance or agent capable of causing or producing cancer in mammals, including humans. A chemical is considered to be a carcinogen if it is listed by either the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), the National Toxicology Program (NTP) or by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Chronic effect: An adverse effect on a human or animal body, with symptoms which develop slowly over a long period of time or which recur frequently. Classification: To identify the relevant data regarding the hazards of a chemical; review those data to ascertain hazards associated with the chemical; and decide whether the chemical will be classified as hazardous, and the degree of hazard where appropriate, by comparing the data with the criteria for health and physics hazards. Container: Any bag, barrel, bottle, box, can, cylinder, drum, reaction vessel, storage tank, tank truck or the like that contains a hazardous substance. For purposes of this section, pipes or piping systems are not considered to be containers. Combustible liquid: Any liquid having a flashpoint at or above 100 F (38 C), but below 200 F (93 C). Corrosive: A chemical that causes visible destruction of, or irreversible alterations in, living tissue by chemical action at the site of contact. Engineering control: A mechanical or design feature intended to remove or isolate potentially harmful substances in the work place. Common engineering controls include local exhaust ventilation systems such as hoods and physical barriers to contain potential hazards. Exposure potential: Factors that influence the effects of chemicals on the health of employees Flammable: A solid, gas, liquid or aerosol that will ignite and burn according to specific tests and definitions. A flammable liquid is defined as any liquid having a flashpoint below 100 F (38 C). Flashpoint: The minimum temperature at which a liquid gives off a vapor in sufficient concentration to ignite and burn according to specific tests and definitions. Hazard category: The division of criteria within each hazard class, e.g., oral acute toxicity and flammable liquids include four hazard categories. These categories compare hazard severity within a hazard class and should not be taken as a comparison of hazard categories more generally. Hazard class: The nature of the physical or health hazards, e.g., flammable solid, carcinogen, oral acute toxicity. August 2015 18
Hazardous chemical: Any chemical which is classified as a physical hazard or a health hazard, a simple asphyxiant, combustible dust, pyrophoric gas, or hazard not otherwise classified. Hazard classification: An evaluation of chemicals to determine the hazard classes, and where appropriate, the category of each class that applies to the chemical being classified. Hazard statement: A statement assigned to a hazard class and category that describes the nature of the hazards of a hazardous product, including, where appropriate, the degree of hazard. Hazard warning: Any words, pictures, symbols, or combination thereof appearing on a label or other appropriate form of warning which convey the health hazards and physical hazards of the substance(s) in the container(s). Health hazard: A chemical which is classified as posing one of the following hazardous effects: acute toxicity (any route of exposure); skin corrosion or irritation; serious eye damage or eye irritation; respiratory or skin sensitization; germ cell mutagenicity; carcinogenicity; reproductive toxicity; specific target organ toxicity (single or repeated exposure); or aspiration hazard. The criteria for determining whether a chemical is classified as a health hazard are detailed in Appendix A to 1910.1200 -- Health Hazard Criteria. Immediate use: The hazardous substance will be under the control of and used only by the person who transfers it from a labeled container and only within the work shift in which it is transferred. Irritant: A chemical, which is not corrosive, but which causes a reversible inflammatory effect on living tissue by chemical action at the site of contact. NIH Employees: All personnel at NIH covered under the scope of this plan, including Federal employees, research associates (local/foreign), temporary interns, and contractors engaged in work that involves the handling of chemicals at NIH facilities. Non-Routine task: A specific task or activity that is not part of the employee's assigned duties. A non-- routine task includes work which the employee may not have specific training or requisite experience to do the work safely. Personal Protective Equipment: Devices worn by the worker to protect against potential hazards. Typical examples include chemically resistant gloves, eye and face protection, hard hats, impermeable aprons, etc. Physical hazards: A chemical for which there is statistically valid evidence that it is a combustible liquid, a compressed gas, explosive, flammable, an organic peroxide, an oxidizer, corrosive, pyrophoric, unstable (reactive) or water reactive. Pictogram: A composition that may include a symbol plus other graphic elements, such as a border, background pattern, or color, that is intended to convey specific information about the hazards of a chemical. Precautionary statement: A phrase that describes recommended measures that should be taken to minimize or prevent adverse effects resulting from exposure to a hazardous product, or improper storage or handling of a hazardous product. August 2015 19
Signal word: A word used to indicate the relative level of severity of hazard and alert the reader to a potential hazard on the label. The words 'Danger' and 'Warning' are used as signal words. Vapor pressure: The pressure exerted by a saturated vapor above its own liquid in a closed container. These values are usually expressed in millimeters of mercury (mmhg). The higher the vapor pressure, the more easily it will enter the atmosphere when left exposed. Water reactive: A chemical that reacts with water to release a gas that is either flammable or presents a health hazard. August 2015 20